Meanwhile, other shows and events not specifically programmed by Deptford X will be taking place in 14 other Deptford galleries and venues (see Gallery Listings) and most of the main studio spaces in the area will be opening up for either one or both weekends (see Open Studios).

We are looking forward to Ben Parry's Deptford Machine (above), a sound sculpture created from damaged goods and shop trophies donated by local traders that will be sited at the Utrophia Project Space. Last year Ben's noisy milk float charmed visitors as it trundled and clanked around the area. We also note Katie Surridge's Fed Up – a collection of elaborately decorated oversized bird feeders to be sited next door to us in Sue Godfrey Nature Park. Of course there are far too many artists participating to mention here, but among those selected for the main programme we have checked one or two who at first glance appear to be dealing with familiar Deptford themes: Adam Vass, Amy Lord, Bridgette Ashton & Nicole Mollett, and Nicholas Cornwell.

There are also two walking tours during the festival: one by Q-Art on Saturday 1st Oct, 2–4.30pm for which you have to book (see the Main Programme), and one by Productlkj which starts at The Old Police Station (Wed-Sat 12noon–4pm) where you will be given an MP3 player and map (see Fringe Programme).

Deptford X co-curator Hew Locke is one of the artists featured in the Folkestone Trienniale this year which continues until 25th September. It is well worth the visit to see his beautiful installation For Those in Peril on the Sea in St Mary & St Eanswythe Church (the oldest building in Folkestone), consisting of around 100 model ships suspended from the nave.